Singer-songwriter Vince Freeman opens up about his most personal project yet, Scars, Ghosts & Glory. From the emotional scars of his past to the moments of triumph that have shaped his journey, Vince takes us through the creation of an album that reveals the raw essence of his life and experiences. In this interview, he reflects on the inspiration behind his solo work, his collaborations with big-name artists, and how vulnerability, perseverance, and love are at the heart of his music.
Your album Scars, Ghosts & Glory has been described as your most compelling project to date. Can you take us through the journey that led to the creation of this record? What were some pivotal moments or experiences that shaped its direction?
I’ve tried to live a full life, and that’s shaped the album’s direction. Ever since I picked up a guitar and started writing songs, I’ve wanted to create an album that truly reflects who I am. That’s when the story of this album began. But in my 20s, I didn’t really know myself. Looking back, I could only finish this project after becoming comfortable in my own skin, warts and all!
You’ve collaborated with big names like Lost Frequencies and Fedde Le Grand, but your solo work, especially on this album, seems to hold a special place. How do these collaborations differ from your solo work? What makes this album feel so personal to you?
Collaborations are just that—shared creations. I love working with other artists because it brings out different aspects of my creativity. But my solo album is personal because it’s about my life—all the scars, ghosts, and glory I’ve experienced along the way.
You mention how brutally honest some of the songs are, like looking at your soul in the mirror. Was there ever a point where this vulnerability felt too raw to share, or was it therapeutic to lay everything out?
I’m thankful to have seen and lived through more than one ‘rock bottom’ in my life, and it leaves you stripped back. When I was younger, I wasn’t comfortable with emotions and honesty, so I couldn’t have written this album in my 20s. These days, I’m OK with my reflection—though I wouldn’t say no to a makeover!
Your journey as a musician hasn’t been easy, with physical challenges like your spinal injury and the impact of the COVID-19 lockdown. How did these struggles influence the album’s themes and tone?
I don’t think my challenges are unique or worse than anyone else’s. These moments have helped me understand that everyone lives, laughs, loves, and experiences loss. In that way, I don’t feel alone in my struggles, and that definitely influenced the album.
“Stardust” is a song of joy amidst the heavier themes of the album. Why did you feel it was important to include a track like this, and what message are you hoping it conveys?
The whole album is more about acceptance and triumph despite life’s challenges. “Stardust,” though, is the light in the darkness. It’s a reminder and a celebration that there’s always hope, and we’re all connected.
The song “Oh What A Life” touches on childhood struggles, set to a Springsteen-inspired rock sound. Could you expand on the inspiration behind this track and what it means to you to revisit those early memories?
“Oh What A Life” is literally the theme song of my childhood. Every character—from the ‘12-year-old black belt’ to ‘Staddy’s Carpets’—were real people and places I grew up with. We didn’t have much money, but that didn’t matter. My childhood was an adventure, filled with tears, laughter, and a dysfunctional yet functional family. Oh, what a life!
You’ve described the album as “a celebration of a love that lasts and changes everything.” How does your personal life and relationships influence your songwriting, particularly on tracks like “Stardust”?
My personal life and relationships are my songwriting. When it comes to my own songs, I want to talk about things I know and people I love. I’m a hopeless romantic at heart, and “Stardust” reflects that.
You’ve gone from being a barista dreaming of festival stages to playing alongside legends like Eric Clapton and Van Morrison. How does it feel to reflect on your growth and the milestones you’ve achieved? Do you ever feel nostalgic about the early days of hustling with your coffee van?
I’m grateful for the coffee van—it helped save our house. But I wouldn’t say I’m nostalgic about it. Right now, I’m living my best life. I’ll always love music, but I’m happy to let others make the coffee!
You previewed the album with singles like “Won’t Remember Heaven” and “Passing By.” How did the audience respond to these tracks, and how has that reception shaped your confidence leading into the album release?
Touring and performing these songs live has been incredible. It’s amazing to see how audiences react the first time they hear them. That reception has definitely boosted my confidence leading up to the album’s release.
You’ve mentioned influences like Sam Fender and Bruce Springsteen in your work. How do you balance incorporating those inspirations while maintaining your unique voice and sound?
My voice is my own, and I’m grateful that it’s unique and distinctive enough not to be confused with other artists. I love listening to anything good. There are too many influences to mention, but they’re just that—influences. I’m not trying to be the next ‘Bruce’ or copy anyone else. That’s how I keep the balance.
With your ongoing tour as a special guest for Scouting For Girls, how has the experience been so far? How does it feel to perform these deeply personal songs in front of live audiences?
It’s been incredible so far. Tonight, I’m playing in my hometown, Cheltenham, so this one might get emotional!
What’s next for you after Scars, Ghosts & Glory? Are there any future collaborations, tours, or projects you’re excited about?
There’s so much to look forward to! What I’m ridiculously excited about is the next single, “REAL LOVE,” featuring LCGC (The London Community Gospel Choir). This summer, I re-recorded “Real Love” with them, and we’ll be releasing it in the coming weeks. I can’t wait for you to hear it.